Shillong, July 22: The Association for Empowerment of Divyangjan (AED), Meghalaya State Unit, on Wednesday said that six groups are affiliated with the association to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities and address the challenges faced by them across the State.
Addressing a press conference at the Shillong Press Club, Association President Jitendra Dkhar said the organisation recently met the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and submitted a memorandum highlighting key issues and demands concerning persons with disabilities in Meghalaya.
Dkhar said the delegation raised several important concerns that require immediate attention and urged the Commissioner to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are protected and implemented in accordance with existing laws.
He described the meeting as positive, stating that the Commissioner acknowledged the issues raised by the association and expressed support for their concerns.
However, the association expressed concern over the poor implementation of disability-related laws in the State. Dkhar alleged that several government departments lack adequate awareness of legal provisions concerning persons with disabilities, resulting in ineffective implementation of policies and welfare programmes.
He further pointed out that although many persons with disabilities have completed their education at various levels, a significant number remain unemployed due to the lack of adequate government employment opportunities.
As a result, he said, many persons with disabilities continue to remain confined to their homes and face numerous unresolved challenges.
The Association urged the State Government to ensure effective implementation of disability rights laws, improve awareness among government departments and create more employment opportunities to ensure equal rights, dignity and inclusion for persons with disabilities in Meghalaya.
